Zamzam Kassamali

What is your current role or position?

Manager Legal (HUBCO) and Company Secretary (Thar Energy Limited and ThalNova Power Thar (Private) Limited) I am a legal counsel for HUBCO, an independent power producer in Pakistan and various companies falling within the HUBCO group umbrella, along with company secretarial work for TEL and TN, including inter alia conducting board and shareholder meetings, and ensuring compliance.

Which organisation or organisation type do you work for?

The Hub Power Company Limited

What motivated you to pursue the Graduate Diploma in Law (GDL)?

The decision to pursue the Graduate Diploma in Law (GDL) stemmed from a desire to bridge my background in Economics and International Development Studies with a comprehensive understanding of legal principles.

Recognising the pivotal role that law plays in shaping societal structures and economic transactions, I sought a programme that could provide me with a strong legal foundation.

The GDL at City, University of London, was the ideal choice, offering an intensive and intellectually stimulating curriculum. It presented an opportunity to delve into core legal subjects, laying the groundwork for a career in law.

This motivation was further fuelled by a fascination with the intersection of legal frameworks and economic dynamics, making the GDL a natural progression in my academic journey.

What were you doing before studying the Graduate Diploma in Law (GDL)?

Before embarking on the Graduate Diploma in Law (GDL), my academic journey began with completing O and A levels in Pakistan under the Cambridge University Examinations. This provided me with a solid foundation in subjects such as Mathematics, Economics, Physics and Chemistry.

The diverse educational landscape in Karachi exposed me to rigorous academic standards, fostering critical thinking and analytical skills. Subsequently, I pursued a Bachelor of Arts at McGill University in Montreal, Canada, majoring in Economics and International Development Studies, with a concentration in Economic Development and Living Standards).

This marked my first experience as an international student and enhanced my global perspective.

My undergraduate studies at McGill equipped me with a comprehensive understanding of economic principles and their application to global development issues.

Returning to Pakistan after my undergraduate studies, I engaged in various internships at renowned corporate law firms to gain practical insights into the legal and corporate realms, prior to commencing the GDL.

What are you doing now? How did The City Law School prepare you for your current role?

In  my current capacity as the Manager Legal at The Hub Power Company Limited (HUBCO) in Karachi, Pakistan, and Company Secretary for Thar Energy Limited (TEL) and ThalNova Power Thar (Private) Limited (TN), The City Law School's comprehensive education has been instrumental.

The Graduate Diploma in Law (GDL) and the Legal Practice Course (LPC) (as known then) laid a solid legal foundation, with specialised electives in Commercial Law and Equity Finance proving particularly valuable for navigating intricate corporate landscapes.

Furthering my education, I pursued an LLM in Legal Practice at City, University of London, achieving a Distinction. This advanced programme deepened my expertise, emphasising cutting-edge legal research to stay abreast of industry developments.

These experiences broadened my understanding of diverse legal perspectives, proving beneficial in managing multinational corporations in my current role.

Before my current position, I served as a Corporate Associate at Mohsin Tayebaly & Co., a top tier law firm in Karachi for approximately 5 years.

In this role, I actively contributed to a spectrum of corporate and commercial law matters, including research, rendering legal opinions, and drafting and vetting agreements. Working at Mohsin Tayebaly & Co. significantly expanded my practical understanding of corporate dynamics, from equity financing structures to mergers and acquisitions.

In addition to my professional roles, I have been actively involved in various volunteer and community service initiatives.

Notably, during my time in London, I participated in the Start-Ed Pro Bono Legal Clinic, advising start-up businesses on intellectual property, employment, and contract law matters.

Presently, I am a member of the Aga Khan Economic Planning Board (Southern Region), for which I coordinate, plan, and oversee events related to financial literacy and inclusion in Karachi and various regions of Sindh, which reflects my dedication to community service.

Additionally, my other volunteering roles, such as being the Lead for Student Selection at Aga Khan University and the Assessor for the McCall MacBain Scholarships at McGill University, underscore my commitment to education.

In essence, my journey from a Corporate Associate to the current managerial role at HUBCO is not just shaped by academic excellence but also by a commitment to volunteerism, community service, and leadership roles, which were fostered by my experiences both at The City Law School and throughout my professional and personal endeavours.

Why did you choose to convert to Law?

I chose to convert to law driven by a desire to complement my existing academic background and professional experiences. After completing my Graduate Diploma in Law (GDL) at The City Law School, I recognised the transformative potential of legal education to enhance my skill set and broaden my career prospects.

The GDL provided me with a solid foundation in legal principles, sparking an intellectual curiosity for the intricate dynamics of the legal field.

I was particularly drawn to the analytical and problem-solving aspects of law, which aligned seamlessly with my interdisciplinary background in Economics and International Development Studies.

Following the GDL, I pursued the LPC and LLM in Legal Practice at City, University of London, achieving a Distinction in both. These postgraduate qualifications allowed me to delve deeper into specialised areas such as Commercial Law, Mergers and Acquisitions, and Equity Finance.

The LLM not only sharpened my legal expertise but also provided opportunities for advanced research, contributing to my ability to navigate complex legal challenges.

My decision to pursue further qualifications after the GDL reflects a commitment to continuous learning and professional development. The conversion to law has proven invaluable, allowing me to integrate legal knowledge into my current role.

In summary, the decision to convert to law stemmed from the recognition of the added value it could bring to my career trajectory.

Pursuing an LLM post-GDL at City, University of London, has been a strategic step that not only deepened my legal understanding but also enhanced my ability to contribute effectively to the legal and corporate landscapes.

How did you find studying in the UK?

Studying in the UK, particularly in London, was a transformative and enriching experience that significantly shaped my academic and personal development.

The vibrant and multicultural environment of London, coupled with the academic excellence at The City Law School, created an unparalleled student experience.

One of the standout aspects of studying in London was the city's global appeal and rich cultural diversity. Interacting with fellow students from various backgrounds provided a unique perspective and enriched my understanding of different cultures, fostering a truly international learning environment.

This diversity not only enhanced the academic discourse but also contributed to my personal growth, promoting open-mindedness and cross-cultural collaboration.

The proximity to legal and financial hubs in London presented extraordinary opportunities for networking and professional exposure.

Attending legal events, lectures, and networking sessions allowed me to engage with legal professionals and practitioners, offering insights into the real-world applications of legal concepts.

This exposure proved invaluable, contributing to my understanding of global legal practices and trends.

London's status as a cultural hub was another favourite aspect. The city's museums, theatres, and historical landmarks provided a rich backdrop for leisure and cultural exploration. Balancing academic commitments with cultural experiences allowed for a well-rounded and fulfilling student life.

The City Law School's strategic location in the heart of London facilitated easy access to legal resources, libraries, and professional networks. This, coupled with the school's commitment to providing a supportive learning environment, created an optimal setting for academic success.

While the academic rigor was paramount, London offered a myriad of recreational activities. From exploring iconic landmarks to enjoying diverse cuisines and cultural events, every day in London presented an opportunity for discovery.

The city's efficient public transportation system further facilitated exploration, making it easy to navigate and appreciate the diversity that London has to offer.

In conclusion, studying in the UK, particularly in London, was an exceptional experience that blended academic excellence with cultural enrichment.

The dynamic cityscape, diverse student community, and access to professional opportunities created a holistic student experience that not only fostered academic growth but also left lasting memories of a vibrant and globally connected city.

How did you fund your studies?

I financed my studies at The City Law School through personal and family savings, without postgraduate loans or specific scholarships.

The financial support from personal and family contributions played a vital role in covering tuition and living expenses associated with pursuing the Graduate Diploma in Law program.

Despite not relying on loans or formal scholarships, the combined strength of personal and family savings empowered me to concentrate on my studies and successfully complete my legal education at The City Law School.

This approach not only ensured financial independence but also underlined the commitment to my academic journey through prudent financial planning and familial support.

Why did you choose The City Law School to study the GDL?

Selecting The City Law School for my Graduate Diploma in Law (GDL) was a decision driven by several compelling factors specific to this foundational legal program.

The school's distinguished reputation for delivering an intensive and comprehensive GDL curriculum played a pivotal role in my choice.

Recognised for its academic excellence, The City Law School offered a GDL program that not only covered core legal principles but also emphasized their practical application.

The City Law School's GDL programme stood out for its commitment to providing students with a solid legal foundation, essential for those transitioning to a legal career from diverse academic backgrounds.

The curriculum's design, focusing on key legal subjects, ensured a thorough understanding of foundational principles. The school's strategic location in the heart of London, a global legal and financial hub, was another influential factor.

Studying at City, University of London provided me with unparalleled access to legal resources, networking opportunities, and exposure to diverse legal practices. Being immersed in this dynamic city enhanced my learning experience, offering insights into the practical applications of legal concepts in a real-world context.

Furthermore, the faculty's expertise in various legal disciplines, combined with their commitment to providing a supportive learning environment, was a significant attraction.

The prospect of learning from knowledgeable professionals who were dedicated to ensuring a successful transition into legal studies contributed to my decision. City's reputation for fostering a multicultural and inclusive atmosphere was also appealing.

Interacting with peers from diverse backgrounds enriched my learning experience, exposing me to a variety of perspectives and global legal practices.

In summary, my decision to choose The City Law School for the GDL was rooted in its stellar academic reputation, practical curriculum design, strategic location, expert faculty, and commitment to providing a supportive and inclusive learning environment tailored for those embarking on their legal education journey.